Office Administration Programs at Ontario Colleges

What to expect from a career as an Office Administrator or Administrative Assistant

Working as an office administrator requires a diverse skill set and the ability to multitask under even the most hectic conditions. Because office administration positions are available across a variety of industries, it also means being adaptable to a variety of different environments and procedures. Office administration programs at Ontario colleges prepare students with practical and people skills that will help them adapt to any number of office environments.

If you’re interested in starting a fast-paced, challenging, multi-faceted career as an office administrator, here’s what you need to know. More

Office Administration Courses

Ontario college office administration programs might include veterinary office administration, legal office administration, medical office administration, executive office administration and more. However, what these programs share are the core office administration skills that are the focus of general office administration programs:

Computer Skills. From word processing to spreadsheet manipulation and analysis to email, a firm grasp on computing is essential in office administration.

Accounting. Basic math, accounting, and finance are important skills for office administrators who may be involved in payroll, expense reports and other financial components of a business.

Office and Administration Procedures. Filing systems, records management and other administration procedures are all vital to a successful business. Techniques on creating and maintaining these systems are a key skill in office administration.

Communications. Office administrators are often the liaisons between employers and clients and employers and employees, and may also be involved in training sessions and interview processes. As such, written and oral communication skills are extremely important and will be a focus in office administration programs.

Along with these practical skills, students also learn “soft” skills, such as how to manage their time, how to take initiative in problem-solving and also how to work under pressure in a healthy manner.

General Office Administration Program Requirements

Ontario college office administration programs are offered as one-year certificate and two-year diploma programs. For both types of programs, an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit, is required. Mathematics credits may also be required, depending on the program.

Office Administration Jobs and Salaries

Office administrator jobs are available in nearly any industry, and are usually in high demand. Possible job titles include receptionist, clerical assistant, administrative support worker and administrative assistant.

Starting salaries for graduates of office administration programs are typically between $27,000 and $32,000 per year, but can run as high as $50,000 or more with experience. Typically, specialized office administrators, such as legal office administrators or medical office administrators, will start off at a higher salary.

Ontario Colleges Offering Office Administration Programs

Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of office administration programs at Ontario colleges. Less